Impact of Tourism on Vegetation Structure and Soil Health in the Indian Himalayan Region

Author: Ankush Moran, Vipan Guleria, Ngahanyui Kengoo, Kapoor

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Abstract

The Indian Himalayan region, renowned for its rich biodiversity and ecological significance, has increasingly faced environmental challenges due to the growing influx of tourism. This review paper explores the impacts of tourism activities on vegetation structure, plant regeneration, and soil physico-chemical properties in the region. The findings reveal significant alterations in forest composition, reduced natural regeneration of plant species, and deterioration of soil health caused by compaction, nutrient depletion, and waste accumulation. These changes threaten the ecological balance and sustainability of the fragile Himalayan ecosystem. The paper emphasizes the urgent need for sustainable tourism practices and policy interventions to mitigate environmental degradation and preserve the region's biodiversity. By identifying key research gaps, the review aims to guide future studies and support the formulation of effective conservation strategies

Keywords

Indian Himalayan Region, Tourism Impact, Vegetation Structure, Plant Regeneration, Biodiversity Conservation, Sustainable Tourism

Conclusion

This review highlights the significant environmental impacts of tourism on vegetation structure, plant regeneration, and soil physico-chemical properties in the Indian Himalayan Region (IHR). Key findings reveal that unregulated tourism activities have led to a measurable decline in forest density, an increase in invasive plant species, and disrupted natural regeneration cycles. Soil quality has been adversely affected through compaction, nutrient depletion, and erosion, further threatening the ecological stability of this biodiversity hotspot. These changes underscore the critical need to address the ecological vulnerabilities of the IHR in the face of growing tourism pressures. Tourism plays a dual role in the region, acting both as a crucial economic driver that supports local livelihoods and as a significant environmental stressor that threatens the long-term sustainability of the region’s ecosystems. While tourism contributes significantly to the local economy and infrastructure development, the lack of sustainable practices exacerbates habitat degradation and biodiversity loss, compromising the ecological and cultural integrity of the Himalayas

References

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How to cite this article

Ankush Moran, Vipan Guleria, Ngahanyui Kengoo, Kapoor and Mitali Mehta (2024). Impact of Tourism on Vegetation Structure and Soil Health in the Indian Himalayan Region. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(11): 115-118